Edna Lois Allen Black

Edna Lois Allen Black, of Gainesville, formerly of Demorest, passed away on Friday, September 17, 2021, at the age of 88 after a period of declining health.  

She was the daughter of the late Arvel West and Nell Power Allen. Edna was also preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Russell Herman Black and seven of her eight brothers and sisters. 

Edna is survived by her son, Joel Dennis Black of Sandy Springs; daughter, Beverly Black Lammers (Tom) of Sautee; grandson, Zachary Thomas Lammers (Tracy) and great-grandson, Russell Thomas Lammers, all of Roswell; sister, Yvonne Lindsay (Charles “Bunky”) of Clarkesville; and a number of nieces and nephews. Edna’s family was very important to her. 

As an active member of Bethlehem Baptist Church until recent years, Edna was involved in diverse aspects of leadership including teacher of pre-school children to senior adults, church benevolence, discipleship, training and many supporting activities. She was a member of the Singing Saints choir. 

Edna graduated from Clarkesville High School in 1950 as the class valedictorian. She was a graduate of Piedmont College, North Georgia College and State University, and the University of Georgia. She completed six years of college after age 37. Most of her work years were spent in the Habersham County Schools in the positions of teacher, instructional supervisor, and curriculum director. 

Edna grew up on the farm and always considered it a blessing to be a part of a large family. She had an appreciation for hard work. She was number six in a family of nine children. 

Edna would openly share that her best decisions in life were to accept Jesus as her personal Savior and to marry Herman Black. Herman and Edna always believed that God put them together. 

Edna will be laid to rest following a private family Celebration of Life service.

Internment will be at Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery in Clarkesville beside her beloved husband of 65 years.  

“To God be the Glory.” 

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com. 

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.